The Fulton County Sheriff

Many accidents can be avoided by taking simple precautions:

Install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms throughout the house.
Check smoke alarms and batteries regularly to make sure they work. Batteries should be changed at least once a year.
Run electrical cords along walls, not under rugs where they're both an obstacle and a fire hazard.

Be Prepared

Emergencies demand immediate action. Use these tips and be prepared:

Keep your phone within easy reach of the chair where you usually sit. If possible, keep one next to your bed.
Keep emergency phone numbers on or near every phone in your home.
Keep fire extinguishers in the kitchen and other rooms, and know how to use them.
Have more than one exit from your home.
Develop an escape route and practice it.
Keep a first-aid kit in your home and in your car.

Help Prevent Fires:

Most fires are caused by carelessness, and often can be contained before they spread. If a fire does get out of control, leave the house immediately and call the fire department.

Never smoke in bed.
Avoid overloading outlets and extension cords.
Never store flammable liquids such as cleaning agents and paint supplies near heating units.
Turn off appliances when they are not in use.
Keep space heaters a safe distance from combustibles. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's guidelines.

Kitchen Safety

The kitchen can be the place where many accidents and fires occur.

Keep flammable objects such as curtains, aprons and dish towels away from stoves.
Never wear loose clothing near a stove top while cooking.
Never leave cooking unattended.
Heat oil slowly. Heating oil too quickly is an easy way to start a fire.
Always clean appliance and surfaces after cooking to prevent grease buildup.
Make sure handles on cookware are secure and always turned toward the center of the stove when cooking.
Use a step stool instead of a chair to climb to a high shelf.
Don't cook if you are drowsy.
If a pan catches fire, carefully place a lid over the pan and turn off the heat. Leave the lid on until completely cool.

General Home Safety Tips

Avoid personal injuries by following these safety tips:

Make sure staircases are well-lit and have convenient switches and night-lights at the top and bottom.
Securely fasten all carpeting.
Make sure all throw rugs or area rugs have non-skid backing.
Install rubber mats or safety decals in bathtubs and showers.
Close cabinet doors and drawers when they are not in use.
Keep staircases and hallways free of any clutter.
Never go up and down stairs carrying things that could block your vision or put you off balance.